How to Watch the Most Anticipated Comet C/2023 A3 Live With the Virtual Telescope

Comet C/2023 A3 is called a “comet of the century” as it is expected to be exceptionally bright. During late September til mid-October, there’s a strong chance to see the comet C/2023 A3 (Tsuchinshan-ATLAS) with the naked-eye around the world. Alternatively, you can watch the Comet livestream.

How to Watch Comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS Live?

If you’re unable to view the comet from your location due to light pollution, weather, or geographical constraints, don’t worry! The Virtual Telescope Project has you covered. They will be hosting a free online observation session on 28 September, 2024 at 4:00 UTC (5:00 London time) and 9 October, 2024, starting at 16:30 UTC (17:30 London time).

During this session, the various telescopes available at the facility located in Manciano, Italy will be utilised. This area is renowned for its dark skies, making it an ideal location for stargazing. Southern Tuscany is some of Italy’s darkest regions, including Maremma and Monte Amiata, which provide an unobstructed view of celestial events.

To watch comet Tsuchinshan-ATLAS live broadcast:

1. Mark your calendar for 28 September at 4:00 UTC (5:00 London time) & 9 October at 16:30 UTC (17:30 London time).
2. Visit the Virtual Telescope Project’s webTV page or YouTube live stream (broadcast starts on 28 September)
3. Enjoy the live feed featuring views from various telescopes in Manciano, Italy.

This online session offers a unique opportunity to witness Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS at its expected peak brightness, showcasing the fascinating forward scattering effect. While it’s impossible to predict exactly what we’ll see, the Virtual Telescope Project is committed to bringing you this potentially spectacular astronomical event.

What Is Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS?

Discovered in early 2023 by observatories in China and South Africa, Comet C/2023 A3 Tsuchinshan-ATLAS is believed to have originated from the Oort Cloud, a distant region of our solar system. This long-period comet is generating excitement among astronomers and skywatchers alike due to its potential to become visible to the naked eye.

When & Where to See It

The comet will reach its perihelion, or closest approach to the Sun, on 27 September, 2024. However, the most spectacular viewing opportunity is expected to occur on 9 October, 2024, when the comet’s position between Earth and the Sun could significantly enhance its brightness. For those in the Northern Hemisphere, the comet should be visible in the evening sky shortly after sunset around 12 October, when it makes its closest approach to Earth.

Astronomers have not pinpointed an exact date for peak visibility, as predictions vary between 2 and 14 October. This uncertainty is due to the complex nature of comet behavior and the numerous factors affecting their appearance. 

Stay tuned, we will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide regular updates to ensure you don’t miss this potentially once-in-a-lifetime celestial spectacle.

How to Observe Comet C/2023 A3?

While the comet may become visible to the naked eye, its appearance can be unpredictable. Currently, it requires binoculars or a small telescope to view. As we approach October, keep an eye on our astronomical forecasts for updated viewing recommendations.